Latest News in Chicago, IL

Homeland Security Boss Says Federal Immigration Agents Haven't Detained US Citizens. She's Wrong

Kristi Noem, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, falsely stated that no American citizens have been detained during immigration operations, despite numerous reports of such incidents in Chicago. Witnesses and legal representatives confirm that U.S. citizens have faced detention and questioning by federal agents, leading to legal scrutiny and a possible extension of restrictions on warrantless arrests.

Heres Where You Can Compost Your Pumpkins In Chicago

Chicago residents can compost their Halloween pumpkins at various Pumpkin Smash events this Saturday, promoting eco-friendly waste disposal. Participants are required to remove all decorations before bringing their pumpkins to designated locations, where they can either smash them or leave them for composting. This initiative aims to reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions.

Amid SNAP Cuts, Englewood Activist Launches 'Tiny Kitchen Project' To Feed Neighbors In Need

Rabbi Tamar Manasseh launched the Tiny Kitchen Project in Englewood to feed over 100 children and families amid uncertainty surrounding federal food assistance benefits. Volunteers will prepare meals for distribution at MASK Peace Academy, aiming to combat hunger and its link to violence. The initiative has garnered community support and donations, including funding from local pastor Bishop Johnny Banks Sr.

Car-Free Meet Me On Milwaukee Events Will Return To Wicker Park Next Year

Wicker Park’s “Meet Me On Milwaukee” car-free events will return in 2026 after a successful pilot program this year. The events, which closed Milwaukee Avenue to traffic for several Sundays, attracted significantly increased foot traffic, benefiting local businesses. Organizers reported attendance tripled during the August event compared to last year.

Chicago Should Pause Evictions As ICE Raids Continue, Housing Advocates Say

Tenants groups in Chicago urge local leaders to implement an eviction moratorium amid ongoing Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations targeting residents. The All-Chicago Tenants Alliance argues that fear of eviction exacerbates financial struggles for vulnerable workers, particularly in the Latino community. Mayor Brandon Johnson expressed willingness to consider the request, while no response has come from Governor JB Pritzker.

Chicago Restaurants Offering Free, Discounted Meals During SNAP Freeze

Chicago restaurants provide free and discounted meals to families affected by the pause in SNAP funding, impacting around 2 million residents. Offers include free meals at various locations and discounted coupons for those in need. Local food pantries also ramp up efforts to support the community during this challenging time.

82 Kimbap Opens In The Loop, Serving Korean Rice Rolls, And More Downtown Food News

Michael Yoo and Jimmy Jung launched 82 Kimbap, a fast-casual eatery in Sterling Food Hall, serving Korean rice rolls. The duo, inspired by their craving for Korean comfort food, spent months perfecting their recipes before opening their stall. 82 Kimbap aims to provide a taste of home for the Asian American community in Chicago.

Filming ICE Detention Of Man With Schizophrenia Left Bystander 'Trembling'

Federal agents apprehended Omar Huerta Cisneros, a man with schizophrenia, in Chicago Lawn while he walked to a grocery store. Bystander Edgar Manzo recorded the incident, providing crucial evidence for Cisneros' family, who struggled to locate him after his detention. Without the video, they would have remained unaware of his whereabouts for weeks.

Wrigleyville Pot Shop, Apartments In Andersonville And East Garfield Park OK'd By City Committee

The City Council's zoning committee approved a cannabis dispensary near Wrigley Field and two apartment developments in Andersonville and East Garfield Park on Monday. The dispensary, set to open at 3650 N. Clark St., will be the closest to Wrigley Field, while the apartment projects aim to increase affordable housing in their respective neighborhoods.

Immigration Raids 'Haven't Gone Far Enough' In Chicago, Trump Says

President Donald Trump stated that federal immigration agents in Chicago “haven’t gone far enough” in their enforcement actions during a “60 Minutes” interview. He defended the use of aggressive tactics, despite public outcry and incidents involving the use of tear gas and rubber bullets against protesters. Local leaders continue to criticize these operations and seek peaceful resistance.